What are the most popular long-distance hiking trails in the US?

Hiking is one of the great ways to improve your fitness. It will help strengthen your leg muscles, increase cardiovascular endurance, and improve balance and coordination.

Additionally, the natural scenery and fresh air of the hiking trail make physical activity refreshing and enjoyable.

Here are 10 popular and highly-rated hiking trails in the United States, in no particular order:

01. The Appalachian Trail

The Appalachian Trail is a long-distance hiking trail that runs through the Appalachian Mountain Range in the eastern United States.

It stretches some 2,200 miles from Springer Mountain in Georgia to Mount Katahdin in Maine and is one of the most famous and well-respected trails in the world.

It is usually hiked from south to north, and most people take 5-7 months to complete the entire trail. The trail is known for its rugged beauty and passes through diverse terrains and ecosystems, including forests, mountains and wetlands.

Hiking the Appalachian Trail is a challenging but rewarding experience, and many consider it a life-changing adventure.

02. The John Muir Trail in California

The John Muir Trail is a 214-mile trail through the Sierra Nevada mountain range in California. It is named after naturalist John Muir and is known for its stunning scenery and challenging terrain.

The trail begins in Yosemite National Park and ends at the summit of Mount Whitney, the highest peak in the United States. Along the way, trekkers pass through beautiful alpine meadows, forests, and mountain peaks and get a chance to see a variety of wildlife.

Hiking the John Muir Trail requires a lot of exercise and preparation. It usually takes 3-4 weeks for most hikers to complete the entire route depending on their pace.

There are several designated campsites along the trail, but hikers should be self-sufficient and carry all their supplies. Permits are required to raise the trail and can be difficult to obtain, as they are available in limited numbers each year.

If you plan to hike the John Muir Trail, it's important to be well-prepared and in good physical condition. Be sure to bring plenty of water, food, and first aid supplies, and be prepared for a change in weather.

It's a good idea to have someone know your itinerary and check in with them regularly along the way.

03. The Pacific Crest Trail

The Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) is a long-distance hiking trail that runs through the western United States from Mexico to Canada.

It stretches approximately 2,650 miles from the Mexican border through California, Oregon, and Washington to the Canadian border.

The PCT is known for its diverse and beautiful landscapes. PCT, which includes everything from deserts to mountain ranges and forests.

It is generally considered a challenging but rewarding hike, and many consider it a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

The PCT is typically hiked from south to north, and it takes most people 4-6 months to complete the entire trail.

If you are an experienced hiker and are looking for a long-distance backpacking adventure, the Pacific Crest Trail is a great option for you.

04. Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona

Grand Canyon National Park is a popular destination for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. Located in Arizona, this park is home to the Grand Canyon, a massive canyon carved by the Colorado River.

The Grand Canyon is one of the most famous natural landmarks in the United States and attracts millions of visitors every year.

Grand Canyon National Park has a variety of hiking trails, from easy, scenic walks to challenging backcountry trails. Here some popular places include the South Kaibab Trail, which offers stunning views of the canyon, and the Bright Angel Trail, a long and challenging route down into the canyon.

Hiking in the Grand Canyon can be physically demanding due to the high altitude and the dry climate of the park. It is important to be prepared and take the necessary precautions, such as carrying plenty of water and wearing appropriate clothing and footwear.

A hike in the park can be an incredible experience and offers the opportunity to see some of the most breathtaking scenery in the country.

05. Olympic National Park in Washington

Olympic National Park in Washington State is a great place for hiking. The park is home to a wide variety of landscapes, including rainforests, alpine grasslands, and a rugged Pacific coastline. Some popular hiking places in the park include:

Hurricane Ridge: This trail offers panoramic views of the Olympic Mountains and the Strait of Juan de Fuca. The hike to the ridge is relatively short and easy, making it a popular destination for families.

Ho Rainforest: The Ho Rainforest is a temperate rainforest located in the western part of the park. The Hall of Moses Trail is a popular 0.8-mile loop that takes you through a dense canopy of moss-covered trees.

Sol Duc Falls: The Sol Duc Falls Trail is a moderate 3.8-mile round trip that takes you to a beautiful waterfall. On the way, you have to pass through a dense forest and cross the Sol Duc River.

Lake Crescent: Lake Crescent is a deep, clear lake located in the center of the park. The Spruce Railroad is a flat, easy hike that follows the lake shore and offers stunning views.

06. Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho

Yellowstone National Park is a popular destination for hiking. Here popular hiking trail places in the park include:

Hayden Valley Trail: This easy, 2.5-mile hike takes you through Hayden Valley, home to a variety of wildlife including bison, elk, and bears.

Hot Spring Paint Pot Trail: This short, 0.5-mile trail takes you through a geothermal area past bubbling mud pots and colorful hot springs.

The Old Faithful Snowshoe Hike: This moderate, 2.6-mile hike takes you to Old Faithful Geyser, one of the park's most popular attractions. The hike is accessible during the winter months by skis, which can be rented at the Old Faithful Snow Lodge.

The Fairy Falls Trail: This moderate, 6-mile round-trip hike takes you to the picturesque Fairy Falls, a must-see in the park.

Whichever hike you choose, follow the Leave No Trace principles, carry plenty of water and snacks, and carry a map with you. It's also a good idea to let someone know your hiking plans before you head out. Have a great hike!

07. Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park is a beautiful place for hiking, with trails ranging from easy, flat walks to challenging, steep climbs. Some popular hikes in the park include:

Bee Hive Trail: This moderate, 0.8-mile hike takes you to the summit of Beehive, a rocky peak with spectacular views of the surrounding area. This hike involves some scrambling and not recommended for young children or those afraid of heights.

Ramp Trail: This challenging, 1.4-mile hike takes you to the top of Mount Champlain and offers breathtaking views of the park and surrounding area. The trail involves steep, exposed rocks and not recommended for inexperienced trekkers or those with a fear of heights.

The Great Head Trail: This moderate, 1.5-mile hike takes you to the Great Head. The trail includes some steep sections and not recommended for young children.

Ocean Trail: This easy, flat 4-mile trail takes you along the park's shoreline and offers stunning views of the ocean and surrounding landscape.

08. Rocky Mountain National Park- Hiking trails

Rocky Mountain National Park is a popular destination for hiking. Some famous hikes in the park include:

Bear Lake Trail: This easy, 0.6-mile loop takes you around beautiful Bear Lake and is suitable for hikers of all skill levels.

Gem Lake Trail: This moderate, 3.4-mile round-trip takes you to Gem Lake, a small, picturesque lake nestled in the mountains. The trail includes some steep sections and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Chasm Lake Trail: This challenging, 8.4-mile round-trip hike takes you to Chasm Lake, a high alpine lake at the base of Longs Peak. 

Sky Pond Trail: This challenging, 8.5-mile round-trip takes you to a beautiful lake, Sky Pond, nestled in the mountains. 

09. Yosemite National Park- Hiking trails

Yosemite National Park is a popular destination for hiking and offers a variety of trails for hikers of all skill levels. Some popular hikes in the park are:

Lower Yosemite Falls Trail: This easy, 0.5-mile trail takes you to the base of one of the park's most popular attractions, Lower Yosemite Falls.

The Mist Trail: This moderate, 6-mile round-trip hike takes you to the top of Vernal Falls and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The trail includes some steep sections and can be slippery when wet.

Four-Mile Trail: This challenging, 9.6-mile round-trip hike takes you to the top of Glacier Point and offers breathtaking views of the park and surrounding area. 

The Half Dome Trail: This challenging, 16-mile round-trip hike takes you to the top of Half Dome, one of the park's most iconic landmarks. The route involves a difficult climb and requires a permit, which is obtained through a lottery system.

10. Glacier National Park- Hiking trails

Glacier National Park is a national park located in the state of Montana. It is known for its stunning landscapes, including mountains, glaciers, and forests. The park offers a variety of hiking trails, ranging from easy walks to challenging backcountry routes.

Popular trails include the Highline Trail and the Grinnell Glacier Trail. The park is open year-round, but the best time to visit for hiking is during the warmer months from May to September.

Some popular hiking trails in the park include:

Hidden Lake Trail: This moderate, 3-mile round-trip takes you to Hidden Lake, a beautiful lake nestled in the mountains. The trail includes some steep sections and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

The Highline Trail: This challenging, 11.6-mile one-way hike takes you along the Garden Wall. It separates the park's many glacial valleys from the Logan Pass area. The trail includes some steep sections and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

Grinnell Glacier Trail: This challenging, 11-mile round-trip hike takes you to the back of the park. It leads to Grinnell Glacier, a large glacier. This is one of the highly risky hiking therefore need the experience to clip these places.

Iceberg Lake Trail: This challenging, 9.7-mile round-trip hike is located in the back of the park. It takes you to Iceberg Lake, a beautiful lake. If you are an experienced trekker, you must visit these places.